Tinotenda Hove – High Court Justice Pisirayi Kwenda has handed down heavy prison terms to Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe following their conviction for defrauding the State of more than US$7 million under the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme.

Mpofu was sentenced to 22 years behind bars, with seven years suspended — three on condition of good behaviour and four on condition of restitution — leaving him with an effective 15 years to serve.

Chimombe received a 17-year sentence, with five years suspended — three for good behaviour and two linked to restitution — resulting in an effective 12-year jail term.

Justice Kwenda said the severity of the fraud warranted strong punishment, noting the massive loss to the State and the abuse of public trust.

Both Mpofu and Chimombe have indicated their intention to appeal both their convictions and sentences.